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Prevalence and Risk Factors of Taenia solium Infection among Humans and Pigs in Wukari Local Government Area, Taraba State, Nigeria Ogbadu J. I; Agere H. I J; Benson O; Mijah A. K
Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 3 No 1 (2026): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v3i1.8282

Abstract

Taenia solium, the pork tapeworm, remains a major zoonotic parasite of public health and economic significance in many low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria. The infection causes taeniasis in humans and cysticercosis in pigs, with transmission sustained by poor sanitation, free-range pig rearing, and inadequate meat inspection. This study determined the prevalence and risk factors associated with T. solium infection among pigs and humans in Wukari Local Government Area (LGA), Taraba State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and June 2024. Stool samples from 402 human participants and carcasses from 390 pigs were examined using standard parasitological and post-mortem inspection techniques. Socio-demographic and behavioral data were obtained through structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0, and associations between infection and risk factors were evaluated using Chi-square (χ²) and logistic regression at a significance level of p < 0.05. The overall prevalence of T. solium infection was 4.8% (38/792). Infection was detected in 4.9% of pigs and 4.7% of humans (χ² = 0.0387, p < 0.05). The highest prevalence among pigs occurred in Puje Ward (6.41%), while Hospital and Rafin Kada Wards recorded the highest human infection rates (5.97%). Significant risk factors identified included home slaughtering (OR = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.1–4.0), poor sanitation (OR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.0–3.2), sale of infected pork (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.1–3.3), and low public awareness (OR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.2–4.4). The study reveals continued endemicity of T. solium in Wukari, driven by modifiable socio-behavioral factors. Strengthened meat inspection, improved sanitation, public education, and adoption of One Health surveillance strategies are recommended to reduce transmission and support Nigeria’s NTD elimination goals by 2030.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Intestinal Protozoan Infections among Secondary School Students in Wukari Metropolis, Taraba State, Nigeria Joseph T. R.; Mijah A. K.; Elizabeth A.; Ogbadu J. I; Agbakyeni H.E; Agere H.I.J.
Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 3 No 1 (2026): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v3i1.8286

Abstract

Intestinal protozoan infections continue to pose public health challenges among school-aged children in developing regions, particularly where sanitation, water quality, and hygiene practices are inadequate. This study assessed the prevalence and associated risk factors of intestinal protozoan infections among secondary school students in Wukari Metropolis, Taraba State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional design was used to sample 400 students from five public secondary schools. Stool samples were examined using direct wet mount and formol-ether concentration techniques, while structured questionnaires assessed demographic characteristics, hygiene behaviour, sanitation practices, and knowledge levels. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests at a 5% significance level. The overall prevalence of intestinal protozoa was 6.75% (95% CI: 4.5–9.0%), comprising Giardia lamblia (3.25%) and Entamoeba histolytica (3.50%). Maramara Government Day and Yakasaen Government Day Schools recorded the highest prevalence (10.0% each), while Government Day School had the lowest (2.5%). The difference in prevalence across schools was not statistically significant (χ² = 5.864; p = 0.661), indicating that risk factors are likely widespread across the metropolis rather than localized within specific schools. Several behavioural and environmental factors contributed to infection risk, including inconsistent handwashing before meals (38.15%), use of unsafe water sources such as streams (9.98%), and open defecation at home (19.95%) and in schools (12.22%). Knowledge gaps were substantial, as 62.84% of students were unaware of intestinal parasites, while 52.12% did not understand transmission routes. Domestic animal ownership (63.53%), irregular footwear use, and low deworming history further increased susceptibility. The findings demonstrate a moderate burden of intestinal protozoa driven by modifiable risk factors. Strengthening school-based health education, improving sanitation facilities, ensuring access to safe water, and implementing routine deworming programs are essential to reducing protozoal transmission and improving student health outcomes in Wukari Metropolis.